Mac computers target of new malware variant

Security firm Sophos has discovered a fresh variant of OSX/RSPlug a Trojan that attacks Apple computers and which malicious people are distributing through an apparently legitimate website that provides the so-called HDTV software.

Say the security specialists that the Trojan's distribution is being made possible with an encouragement to users to take down the desirable software. Meanwhile, since the installation of the software necessitates a computer user to enter his system password therefore once that is done, the RSPlug-F Trojan becomes active and it damages the Mac OS X.

Subsequently, the Trojan reconfigures the DNS (Domain Name Server) settings on the user's computer in order that the user is redirected onto fake websites. However, the worse thing as a result of changed DNS settings, is that the computer can be made to relay spam.

Although the Trojan designed to specifically attack Mac OS might not be common the threat is even uncommon because it can potentially infect Windows-based computers as well. But when users of infected Windows PCs access the fake websites, the Trojan delivers itself as a malevolent executable that emanates from the Zlob group of trojans instead of the RSPlug-F Trojan.

Comments Senior Security Consultant Graham Cluley at Sophos that users of Windows should not feel complacent regarding the attack aimed at users of Mac. Webuser reported this on March 25, 2009.

Cluley adds that Windows users are not any different from Mac users with respect to falling prey to social-engineering tactics like in the current one that uses the HDTV software lure. According to him, Windows users might just similarly install the malware on their PC if they can be convinced that it would enable them to view high-definition TV.

Moreover, CEO of regional Sophos distributor Brett Myroff for South Africa commented that Mac users would be risking their data's security if they think they wouldn't be affected with threats that have been troubling Windows users for years. MyBroadband.co.zaNews reported this on March 25, 2009.

As a matter of fact, say security experts that the hackers who for years have been creating trojans for Windows are now targeting Mac.